Melson Formula

Child SupportUpdated February 26, 2026

A child support calculation method ensuring parents' basic needs are met before allocating income to children and standard of living.

Example

Delaware's Melson formula first reserved income for his basic needs before calculating support.

DELAWARE

Melson Formula

Delaware developed and uses the Melson formula; ensures parents' basic needs are met before calculating support

HAWAII

Modified Melson Formula

Hawaii uses a modified version of the Melson formula

MONTANA

Modified Melson Formula

Montana uses a version based on the Melson formula

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